how to multiply fractions
We multiply fractions just like we multiply whole numbers!
1) 1/4 * 5/8
1 * 5 = 5 Multiply the numerators
4 * 8 = 32 Multiply the denominators
1/4 * 5/8 = 5/32 Solve
Now let's try another one. We'll do the same thing, even though the numbers are bigger.
2) 17/23 * 14/22
17 * 14 = 238 Multiply the numerators
23 * 22 = 506 Multiply the denominators
17/23 * 14/22 = 238/506 Solve
238/506 = 119/253 Simplify
1) 1/4 * 5/8
1 * 5 = 5 Multiply the numerators
4 * 8 = 32 Multiply the denominators
1/4 * 5/8 = 5/32 Solve
Now let's try another one. We'll do the same thing, even though the numbers are bigger.
2) 17/23 * 14/22
17 * 14 = 238 Multiply the numerators
23 * 22 = 506 Multiply the denominators
17/23 * 14/22 = 238/506 Solve
238/506 = 119/253 Simplify
2) 17/23 * 14/22
We know that 17 and 23 are both prime numbers, so that fraction cannot be reduced. Both 14 and 22 are divisible by two, so we can simplify! 14/22 = 7/11
17/23 * 7/11
17 * 7 = 119 Multiply the numerators
23 * 11 = 253 Multiply the denominators
17/23 * 7/11 = 119/253 Solve
We get the same answer either way! Now it's your turn to try.
We know that 17 and 23 are both prime numbers, so that fraction cannot be reduced. Both 14 and 22 are divisible by two, so we can simplify! 14/22 = 7/11
17/23 * 7/11
17 * 7 = 119 Multiply the numerators
23 * 11 = 253 Multiply the denominators
17/23 * 7/11 = 119/253 Solve
We get the same answer either way! Now it's your turn to try.
Click on the link below to practice what we've learned.
What do you have to do before you multiply?
It's Game Time!
What do you have to do before you multiply?
It's Game Time!